Since Walt first introduced us in 1928 to a mouse named Mickey in a movie called ‘Steamboat Willie’, the magic of Disney has made the world a happier place.

From that humble black and white beginnings, Disney of course became an entertainment colossus; not just making TV shows and movies but the ultimate hands-on fantasy in Disneyland’s Magic Kingdoms and now is producing theatre with the same ethos and values.

‘Aladdin the movie’ thrilled our children and grandchildren – some of them have even been on the Aladdin magic carpet ride at the theme park – but last night Aladdin the stage musical at the Hippodrome was a ‘Whole New World’ for four-year-old grandson Jacob.

Chad Beguelin’s book is the perfect example of stripped-down storytelling where each character and their place in the plot is succinctly explained upon their introduction without you realising it.

Likewise, the songs with lyrics from the maestro Tim Rice, Howard Ashman plus Chad Beguelin again are always part of the journey. No shoe-horned pantomime pop songs – just fitting originality. Music composed by Alan Menken and performed by a driven orchestra under the baton of MD Dave Rose completes the synergy.

Picture by Deen Van Meer. s

Aladdin is directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw who makes sure there is always something memorable happening on stage for us to gasp over – be it song, dance, trickery or action.

Nicholaw’s direction works harmoniously within Bob Crowley’s scenic design, which ranges from the simplicity of a bustling Arabian street market to the splendour and intricacy of the glittering jewel-filled cave.

There are stunning costumes, awesome lighting and perfect sound from the trio of Gregg Barnes, Natasha Katz and Ken Travis; plus a bevy of effect and

illusion designers, fight and movement directors all of whom contribute to making an extravaganza that thrills from the very, very young to the very, very old – and yes we all say ‘Aye’,

Gavin Adams makes his professional stage debut as a highly engaging Aladdin, perfectly matched by Desmonda Cathabel as Princess Jasmine.

They are well supported by a sparkling and inclusive cast all of whom make for a top troupe indeed.

Particular stand outs for me were Angelo Paragoso as the naughty Iago, Nelson Bettencourt, Adam Taylor and Nay-Nay as Babkak, Omar and Kassim as Aladdin’s three street-wise chums and Yeukayi Ushe who is the complete package as the ever-watchable Genie.

Disney’s Aladdin is quite simply a musical triumph that is a thrilling treat for audiences of all ages. The flying carpet scene where Aladdin and Jasmine fly amongst the stars has to be one of the greatest pieces of illusion ever to grace the Hippodrome stage. And is worth the ticket money on its own.

Grandson Jacob’s comments were “It was great to see the real Aladdin” and “The tiger in the cave was a bit scary but only a bit”. He loved the sword fighting and the best bit overall was “…the happy ending”.

Don’t think I can improve on that except to give it five stars.

Aladdin runs at the Hippodrome until November 3. Click here for times, tickets and more information.

*****

Review by Euan Rose

Euan Rose Reviews